Prize money for the Australian tennis summer has tipped above $100 million for the first time, with Australian Open players to share in a record-high $76.5 million.

Winnings for the United Cup, played in Sydney, Brisbane and Perth, are in the range of $22 million. Overall prize money for January’s Open at Melbourne Park, however, is up 3.4 per cent on last year’s figures. The singles champions will take home prize cheques of $2.98 million.

“It is critical to the continued success of the Australian tennis summer that we provide strong and relevant playing opportunities and ensure that the best players in the world are compensated appropriately,” said Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tiley.

“We want to ensure Australia is the launchpad for the global season and that we see as much of them as possible.”